Saudi Arabia has officially declared September 23, 2026, as a public holiday for workers in the private and non-profit sectors to mark the Kingdom’s 96th National Day.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, confirming that National Day will be observed this year on Rabi Al Thani 12, 1448 AH, corresponding to Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
In a statement shared through its official account on X, the ministry said the holiday is being implemented in accordance with Article 24 of the Executive Regulations of the Saudi Labour Law.
The ministry also called on employers across the Kingdom to comply with the provisions and mechanism outlined in the second paragraph of the relevant article.
The decision means workers employed by private companies and non-profit organisations will officially join other sectors in observing the National Day holiday.
Saudi Arabia celebrates National Day every September 23 to commemorate the unification of the Kingdom under its founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud, in 1932.
The annual celebration is marked by public events, cultural activities, decorations and various festivities across the country.
The latest announcement provides official clarification on the holiday arrangements for workers in the private and non-profit sectors and reinforces employers’ obligations under Saudi Arabia’s labour regulations.
When Is Saudi Arabia National Day 2026?
Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
The date corresponds to Rabi Al Thani 12, 1448 AH, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
The holiday commemorates the historic unification of the Kingdom in 1932 under King Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Key Details
- Holiday: Saudi National Day
- Date: September 23, 2026
- Day: Wednesday
- Occasion: 96th Saudi National Day
- Applies to: Private-sector and non-profit-sector workers
- Legal basis: Article 24 of the Executive Regulations of the Labour Law
- Historical significance: Unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932